Can anybody be treated using orthodontic braces?

Yes, and at any age too. However, orthodontics work best when carried out in children, whose teeth and bones are still actively growing.

What is a good age to start treatment?

It is recommended that a child’s first visit to the orthodontist should be between 7 and 8 years of age. Early examination allows the orthodontist to detect problems in dental development and jaw growth and plan an appropriate treatment. In certain cases, early treatment my prevent serious problems from developing and facilitate treatment at a later age.

When do I know that my child needs to see an orthodontist?

When you see crowded teeth, protruding teeth, un-erupted or missing teeth- especially if teeth are missing only from one side, thumb-sucking past the age of 5 or 6, early loss of baby teeth, cross-bite (one or more lower teeth biting in front of the upper anterior teeth), deep bite (upper front teeth overlapping the lower front teeth completely).

What will happen at the first appointment?

The first appointment will take approximately 30 minutes. A brace will not be fitted at this session. At this stage we will use the time to assess your problems, discuss the orthodontic treatment plan that will be necessary and the optimum time to start treatment. We will also take into account your own concerns, your dental development and your oral hygiene. Patients who are not ready to start immediately, we will make an appointment to take dental records which include dental study models, photographs and x-rays.

How do you carry out orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment involves wearing fixed or removable orthodontic appliances. Different combinations may be used to treat individual cases. Removable appliances are used for simple treatment, and work by exerting gentle pressure. Fixed appliances give more precise guidance and have brackets and bands temporarily attached to the teeth. Depending on your age and type of problem- skeletal or dental, these appliances move your teeth into position, guide the way your jaw grows, or even widen your jaw to make room for crowded teeth. Occasionally, it might be necessary to extract some teeth if your mouth is very crowded.

Will it make my teeth sore?

It is likely to be sore for about 3-5 days each time the brace is adjusted, because the teeth move. If necessary, painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache may help.

How long will treatment take?

This depends on your age and your problem. It could take from few months up to two years. With the Damon System braces treatment is reduced by several months. Broken braces and missed appointments will slow your treatment down. The success and the duration of your treatment depends on good cooperation.

How often will I need to visit the orthodontist?

You will need an appointment every 4 to 10 weeks, depending on the type of braces.